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Richelieu was one of the greatest figures in Early Modern Europe. He changed France from a feudal society into a modern state. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Absolute Monarchy in France because he managed to curb the power of the French nobility. His foreign policy effectively ended the Hapsburg threat to France and made her one of, or perhaps the most powerful kingdom on the continent. Richelieu, died before his policies came to fruition but his protégé Mazarin ensured that the plans of the Cardinal were carried out. This meant that French society was utterly changed. Richelieu also had a very modern outlook and he created the apparatus of a modern nation state and laid the foundations for the future French Empire in North America. His last words to the king, before he died, sum up his achievements .<ref> Collins, p. 114</ref>I have the consolation of leaving your kingdom in the highest degree of glory and of reputation</ref> However, all of this came at a cost. After his death, the French nobility revolted in two wars known as the Frondes, that devastated France. His military campaigns and administrative reforms led to widespread poverty, rebellion, and famine in the countryside. Richelieu did make France great but in doing so he caused many millions to suffer. No wonder he was such a divisive figure, who was either hated or loved.